Robert E. DeGriselles

Posted 10/23/23

October 20, 1952 - October 8, 2023

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Robert E. DeGriselles

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Robert DeGriselles, (Griz) was born October 20, 1952, in Pipestone MN to Leo Van and Myrtle (Boock) DeGriselles. He grew up in rural Pipestone and Moody County, graduating from Egan High School.
After school he joined the United States Navy and served for 5 years during the Vietnam war on the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk. He was stationed in California and met many lifelong friends there. After his service he moved back to South Dakota and in 1978 he was married to Patrica Barber and to this union, 2 children were born.
Griz enjoyed playing darts, fishing, hunting, smoking a good chunk of meat on the grill and above all good times with family and friends. He looked forward to cooking for friends at the Dog Roast, an annual Labor Day party. He was a lover of life who lived it on his own terms with zero care of what others may think. He was a loyal fan of the Minnesota Vikings and watching NHRA drag racing. He took many trips to Wisconsin to see family and blow things up!! He loved fireworks and the 4th of July was his favorite holiday. One of the proudest days of his life was when he was finally able to be called grandpa by his loved granddaughter Nala Barber.
Robert passed away on Sunday October 8th just 12 days short of his 71st birthday in his home in Egan SD. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law Rose and Bud Barber, stepdad Leo Kotan, sisters Rita Staab, Marvel Feest, brothers Steven Kotan, David Kotan, nephews Leo Feest, Mathew Feest, niece Jerlyn Kotan, brother in laws, Mel Feest, Jerry Staab, and many lifelong friends. He was also preceded in death by his two beloved dogs Radar and Buddha
He is survived by the love of his life Pat DeGriselles, son Sam (Jen) Barber, grandchild Nala Barber, son Joshua (Beth Livesay) DeGriselles, Beths children Taven and Cael. He is also survived by his brother Joel Kotan, and sister Carol (Henry) Leubke, and many other beloved family members and lifelong friends.    
A celebration of life was held Friday, October 20, 2023 at Miller Funeral Home in Sioux Falls.